JOB SEARCH TIPS Starting your job search can be overwhelming. There is so much to do and so much to remember. Follow these steps and you will have great job search success!
First, ask yourself, "Do I have the right tools for my job search?" For an effective job search, you will need to have a calendar, notebook, job search guide, resume paper, envelopes, pen, computer access, and a binder or folder. If you do not have these items there are options available to you. Fairfield County Job and Family Services WorkNet is an excellent resource to use for your job search. The WorkNet will offer you computer access to information, help with your resume, and several job search tips.
A Career Advisor at Fairfield County Job & Family Services can also give you a contact tracking sheet to track your employer contacts. Often local banks and insurance companies give out free calendars. You can also shop the local discount stores in your area for inexpensive notebooks and calendars. Remember, you can always use blank paper to make your own calendar and employer contact list. Once you have these items, you are ready to get started making a job search plan!
Secondly, do you know how to find all of the employers your field? To get a good base for your job search, it is important for you to know who is who in your field. Learn to research the occupational trends in your field, be aware of local labor market information, and be able to name of at least 25 employers that hire in your field. To figure out who the employers are in your area, go to www.acinet.org and use the employer locator tool. If you would like additional assistance with locating employers contact a Career Advisor or a staff member in WorkNet.
The third question you should ask yourself is, "Do I devote enough time to my job search?" It is important to remember to treat your job search like full- time employment. Here are some tips to get you organized! Use your calendar to write down all of your appointments for your family and then schedule time for job searching. The reason behind scheduling your job search is because it will allow you to make the most of each day. Often we lose time because we do not have a set plan or goal for the day. Each day of your job search, set a goal or make a plan for yourself. Remember to keep it obtainable and specific.
Examples of goals for a day could include the following:
1. Contact five employers about job openings.
2. Complete two applications for an available position.
3. Call five employers to follow up on an application, interview, or resume.
Another example could be:
1. Gather your references and document their information.
2. Complete personal information in your job search guide or make a reference list of personal information to take with you when completing applications.
3. Update you resume and make ten copies.
The fourth step is to remember to follow up with employers. Follow up is the most often missed part of job searching. Do not wait for an employer to contact you, you should contact them. Following up with a card, phone call, or letter can make the difference between you and someone else getting the job you want! Showing interest and determination can be a powerful thing!
Finally, what happens when you are using the right tools and still not getting any offers? Please remember that every time you contact an employer, whether you get the job or not, you are fine-tuning your job search skills. Each time you speak with an employer, you will get more experience in the questions employers are asking, what the employers are looking for, and how to market yourself! Do not forget that you are unique, and what makes you unique is why employers will want you.
If you are finding it difficult to organize or find your skills, come to Fairfield County Job and Family Services and speak with a Career Advisor about your job search options. We can help you realize your potential! Also, ask us about the FREE GO! Workshops are offered only at Fairfield County Job & Family Services! We offer training on interviewing skills, skill building, resume writing, budgeting, and many more!
Fairfield County Job and Family Services also offers a certification program called S.T.A.R.S. This program can help prepare you to market yourself to employers. Contact a Success Coach in Community Services to learn more about the S.T.A.R.S. Certification program.
So take a deep breath, and know that you have what that employer wants!
To speak to a Career Advisor or WorkNet staff member:
(740) 689-2494 or 800-450-8845
To speak with a Success Coach:
(740) 653-1701 or 800-450-8845
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